barima
The Twi word for man is barima.
The word barima refers to an adult male human.
Meaning: adult male human (noun)
Did you know?
- In many Twi contexts, the word barima is not just a biological descriptor but a label for someone who has completed specific rites of passage or manhood ceremonies.
- In Twi, calling someone a barima can sometimes be used as an exclamation of praise to acknowledge a man's strength or courage during a difficult task.
- When addressing a man of higher social status or an elder, calling them simply barima can be seen as too blunt. Speakers often add honorifics or use kinship terms like papa to show respect.
Examples in context
- Barima no rekɔ aduane.The man is going to eat.
- Ɛyɛ barima kɛseɛ.He is a big man.
- Barima bi na ɔbɛba.A man will come.
Example conversation
Ama sees a stranger walking toward their house.
- KwameHwan ne barima no?Who is that man?
- AmaMennim ne din.I don't know his name.
- KwameƆyɛ barima a menim.He is a man I know.
- AmaMa ɔmra baa.Let him come inside.
